Each successful destination will receive up to €100,000 annually to develop Halloween-themed festivals
Fáilte Ireland has announced that two additional counties, Limerick City and County Council and Kilkenny County Council, have been selected to receive funding under its new Home of Halloween Pilot Destination Development Scheme. A total of €2.1 million will be invested in 7 locations across the country over the next three years (2025–2028), as part of the ‘Ireland, Home of Halloween Strategy’ which aims to establish Ireland as the authentic global home of Halloween.
The pilot scheme is part of the ‘Ireland, Home of Halloween Strategy’ which was developed collaboratively by Fáilte Ireland, Tourism Ireland, and Tourism Northern Ireland to establish Ireland as the authentic global home of Halloween. The pilot scheme aims to deliver immersive, culturally rich experiences that celebrate Ireland’s heritage, extend the tourism season into October and November, and stimulate sustainable regional economic growth through collaboration between local authorities, tourism businesses, and cultural organisations.
The pilot Home of Halloween Pilot Destination Development Scheme invited all Local Authorities to apply for funding to create a new season for Halloween festivals rooted in local culture, folklore, and community engagement. Each successful destination will receive up to €100,000 annually to develop Halloween-themed festivals that celebrate Ireland’s heritage and attract visitors during the off-peak season.
Additional investment was allocated by Fáilte Ireland to the pilot programme following a high level of interest from Local Authorities and the strength of the proposals received. Over the course of three years, the seven supported projects are projected to attract approximately 337,000 additional visitors, generating an estimated €28 million in economic impact for local communities.
The full list of successful local authorities is:
- Galway City Council
- Longford County Council and Westmeath County Council (joint project)
- Meath County Council and Louth County Council (joint project)
- Kerry County Council
- Fingal County Council
- Limerick City and County Council
- Kilkenny County Council
Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke said:
“The Home of Halloween strategy sets out a compelling vision for positioning Ireland as a must-visit destination for cultural tourism. With the addition of Limerick and Kilkenny, this investment will bring Ireland’s Halloween story to life in even more communities. Over the next three years, these projects are expected to attract 337,000 additional visitors and generate €28 million for local economies. It’s a powerful way to celebrate our heritage while driving sustainable tourism growth during the shoulder season.”
Orla Carroll, Director of Product Development at Fáilte Ireland, added:
“We were very encouraged by the strong interest and vision from local authorities, and the successful applicants, now including Limerick and Kilkenny, showed real potential to deliver a season of vibrant, authentic festivals. Building on the Púca festival, this scheme fosters partnerships between councils, tourism businesses, and cultural groups, helping to build a sustainable Halloween tourism offering across the regions of Ireland. These seven destinations will offer experiences that resonate with both domestic and international visitors and support long-term tourism development.”
The new pilot scheme builds on the success of the Púca Festival co-developed by Fáilte Ireland and Meath County Council in 2019. Rooted in the ancient tradition of Samhain, Púca has become a flagship Halloween event, attracting thousands with its vibrant mix of spectacle, music, and food.
In 2024, the festival welcomed 49,050 attendees, delivering €7.11 million in economic impact, and supporting 174 jobs. In 2023, Fáilte Ireland also introduced Fire & Shadows Processions in Limerick, Longford, and Waterford to further establish Ireland’s position as the Home of Halloween.
Limerick City and County Council Home of Halloween Project
Limerick City and County Council presents Halloween in Limerick ‘Where Darkness Dances with Delight’, which will transform the city streets, county towns, and rural corners into a five-week spectacle of spooky enchantment, local folklore, creative exploration, and community celebration. The festival will showcase Limerick’s rich storytelling tradition and vibrant arts scene, creating a unique Halloween experience that blends ancient customs with contemporary creativity.
Kilkenny County Council Home of Halloween Project
Kilkenny County Council’s Halloween programme will feature a dynamic, four-week schedule of events beginning on 10th October. Developed in collaboration with long-established festival and event providers, the programme will celebrate the harvest, local food culture, and Kilkenny’s eerie folklore, including tales of witches, trials, and ghostly legends. The initiative aims to animate the city and county with immersive experiences that highlight Kilkenny’s heritage and charm.
